Gull rescued by RSPCA and firefighters with pontoon on Grantham canal

The injured gull was rescued from Grantham canal by firefighters using a pontoon.

The RSPCA and firefighters worked together to rescue a gull who had become caught on a fishing hook at Grantham canal yesterday.

A member of the public noticed the gull tethered onto a submerged branch in the canal between Earlesfield Lane and Trent Road.

Kate Burris, RSPCA animal welfare officer, was called out at about 3.30pm and found the distressed bird with a hook piercing his foot.

However it was difficult to get close enough due to ice, and consequently Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue were contacted. They were able to use a floating pontoon to enter the canal and reach the bird, who was then taken for examination and first aid at Avenue Vets in Grantham.

Kate kept him overnight before releasing the bird today with the member of public who made the discovery.

“It went off like a dream. Sometimes birds that get caught like this end up with a broken leg, but he was very lucky.”

Kate added that although most anglers are responsible with their fishing lines and hooks, they are often the cause of trapped animals in the area, and asked people to take care when disposing of them.